Renault UK Offers Free Charging Stations With Zoe Electric Car

Renault's absence from North America means the Zoe electric car won't be reaching U.S. shores any time soon. And that's kind of a shame.

It's about as chic as you'd expect for a car originating from France, and makes you wonder why some other companies can't put a bit of effort into styling their electric cars, too.

However, price could sell the Zoe in Europe--and in the UK, Renault is also offering buyers home charging stations, absolutely cost-free.

It's able to do this thanks to the UK's electric car incentive package.

Not only do UK buyers currently get almost $7,600 off the price of a new zero-emission vehicle under the government's Plug-In Car Grant--dropping the price of a Zoe to only $20,700--but the government also pays for up to 75 percent of the cost of a domestic charging point.

Renault will pay the other 25 percent, meaning Zoe buyers can get a professionally-installed electric car charging point absolutely free.

Energy supplier British Gas will install the 32 amp, 7 kW wall box on the owner's home, prior to delivery of their new Zoe. Renault's extra 25 percent share will save owners around $760, and comes with an attached cord so owners don't need to use a separate cable for home charging.

Renault estimates that 90 percent of charging will take place at home, though the Zoe is also fast-charge compatible, offering the usual 80 percent capacity boost in 30 minutes. As part of the package, Renault also offers free access to a public charging network across the UK.

As with all Renault's electric vehicles, there is another cost involved: monthly battery rental. This starts at £70 per month, or around $106 at current exchange rates.

For some, it'll be enough to sour the deal--while a Zoe costs no more than an equivalent diesel subcompact in the UK after the government subsidy, a typical low-mileage owner may spend less than $106 per month on fuel anyway.

For others, it may simply be peace of mind, since the battery rental package comes with a comprehensive after-sales support package covering the battery itself, and providing you with a lift should you ever run out of charge.

And of course, owners will still enjoy the Zoe's neat styling and smooth electric car driving characteristics--while paying absolutely nothing for a home installed charger.